How to Cure Vaginal Dryness: 7 Top Tips
How to Cure Vaginal Dryness: 7 Top Tips
Are you suffering from female discomfort? If so we have a few solutions for you if you’re looking to cure vaginal dryness. Click here for more info!
Cure Vaginal Dryness
Are you feeling a mild discomfort down there? Do you experience pain during sexual intercourse? In this case, vaginal dryness might be the culprit.
This common health problem affects women of all ages, especially those going through menopause. It can have a variety of causes, from hormonal disorders to pregnancy and childbirth. Stress, infections, smoking, and allergic reactions play a role too.
Over 79 percent of women experience pain during sex because of vaginal dryness. Another 41 percent report a decreased libido. Other common symptoms include local discomfort, low self-esteem, and pain when urinating.
The good news is that you can cure vaginal dryness naturally. From moisturizing creams to dietary changes, there are various ways to relieve its symptoms and get your life back on track.
First, let’s see what causes this problem and how it affects your health.
Why Are You Dry Down There?
About 17 percent of women between the ages 17 and 50 will experience vaginal dryness at some point in their lives. Also known as atrophic vaginitis, this condition is extremely common and difficult to prevent.
Under normal conditions, your vagina produces two types of mucus. One is released when you become aroused. The other occurs on a daily basis to prevent infections and keep your private parts clean.
Hormonal fluctuations, pregnancy, douching, and certain medications can affect these natural lubricants. The same goes for smoking and drinking. Cigarettes, for instance, restrict blood flow, which in turn, contributes to a dry vagina.
Another possible cause is emotional stress. This factor affects your sexual arousal and may cause performance anxiety. As a result, you may experience vaginal dryness and discomfort during intercourse.
Nutrient deficiencies play a role too. Vaginal fluid is rich in protein, calcium, and electrolytes. If your diet lacks these nutrients, it may affect vaginal lubrication.
Other common causes include immune disorders, childbirth, breastfeeding, and hormonal replacement therapy. Vaginal dryness can also occur due to:
- Allergy and cold medications
- Chemotherapy and radiation
- Hysterectomy
- Birth control pills
- Menopause
- Post episiotomy
- Antidepressants
- Vulvovaginitis
- Hypopituitarism
A staggering 40 percent of women are struggling with this issue during and after menopause. In this case, we’re talking about postmenopausal atrophic vaginitis.
This condition causes vaginal dryness, burning, and pain during sex. Over time, it increases your risk of incontinence and urinary tract infections.
Fortunately, it’s never too late to cure vaginal dryness. Here are some tips to help you out.
Use a Vaginal Moisturizer
Go to any health store and ask for a vaginal moisturizer or lubricant. These products come in cream form and need to be applied topically. Since they’re safe and free of hormones, you won’t need a prescription.
Apply lubricants before sexual intercourse to reduce friction and discomfort. Beware that they may damage diaphragms and condoms.
Vaginal moisturizers can be applied several times a week. These products should not be used before having sex.
Stay Hydrated
Dehydration is often the culprit behind vaginal dryness. Your tissues need water to stay moist. In fact, the human body is over 60 percent water.
Drink plenty of fluids throughout the day. Keep a water bottle at hand at all times.
Be aware that caffeine and alcohol may cause dehydration due to their diuretic properties. Tea, water, and smoothies are all an excellent choice.
Eat High-Estrogen Foods
Certain foods, such as soy and flax seeds, are rich in phytoestrogens. These natural compounds mimic the hormone estrogen in your body, offering relief from vaginal dryness.
Make sure your diet includes sesame seeds, chickpeas, beans, tofu, and tempeh. Alfalfa sprouts and flax meal can help too.
Load Up on Omega-3s
Even the slightest hormonal imbalance can dry out your vagina. Omega-3 essential fats and other key nutrients can restore your hormone levels and prevent inflammation.
To get more Omega-3s into your diet, eat fish at least twice a week. Your daily meals can also include avocado, extra virgin olive oil, nuts, and seeds.
Also, consider taking fish or cod oil. These supplements are rich in omega-3s, vitamin A, vitamin E, and antioxidants.
Take Vitamin C
Depending on the root cause of your problem, vitamin C may help cure vaginal dryness naturally.
This nutrient stimulates collagen production and increases tissue elasticity. It also promotes healthy skin and hair, boosts immune function, and slows down aging.
Take vitamin C supplements or eat more foods containing this compound. Strawberries, papaya, mango, kiwi, and citrus fruits are just a few to mention. Aim for at least 500 milligrams of vitamin C per day.
Try Vaginal Estrogen Therapy
Nowadays, there several products that relieve vaginal dryness and reverse the thinning of vaginal tissues. They contain low doses of the female hormone estrogen and must be applied topically.
In general, estrogen products are prescribed to menopausal women. They should be used at the lowest effective dose to prevent any potential side effects.
Depending on your preferences, you can opt for vaginal tablets, vaginal rings, or vaginal creams.
Since these products require a prescription, discuss with your doctor. He can recommend the best solution for your needs.
Limit Stress
Stress increases epinephrine levels in the body, which interferes with your sexual response and may cause vaginal dryness. If you’re constantly stressed or anxious, seek ways to relax.
Get more exercise, try yoga, or incorporate meditation into your routine. Try to catch more Z’s at night and make time for the things you love.
If necessary, consult a psychotherapist. He can identify the cause of stress and help you overcome these issues.
Cure Vaginal Dryness and Get Your Life Back on Track
Vaginal dryness can affect your confidence, sex life, and overall health. Yet, most women either ignore this problem or feel too embarrassed to discuss it.
If you’re facing this issue, talk with your doctor. Remember that you’re not alone. A qualified medical professional can recommend supplements or topical products that support vaginal health.
Whether you want to cure vaginal dryness or other pelvic health issues, contact us today! We have years of experience in gynecology and obstetrics and provide customized treatments based on each patient’s needs.